Northern Lights Explorer Super Jeep Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the aurora borealis dance across Iceland’s winter sky, a guided tour can make that vision a reality. The Northern Lights Explorer Super Jeep Tour offers an adventure-packed way to hunt for those elusive lights, whisking you away from Reykjavik’s city lights into the wild Icelandic countryside. While we’ve not personally been on this tour, the reviews and itinerary give us a pretty clear picture of what to expect—and whether it’s worth your time and money.

One thing that really stands out is how this tour combines comfort with excitement. Traveling in a super jeep, you’re not just sitting in a cramped bus; you’re off-roading in style, reaching better vantage points away from crowds. Plus, the cozy touches—wool blankets, hot chocolate, snacks—make spending hours outside in winter conditions a lot more manageable. That said, weather can be unpredictable, and sometimes the Northern Lights might stay hidden behind clouds, which is just the nature of chasing something so elusive.

This experience is largely suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure and comfort, and for those who don’t mind spending a few hours waiting in the cold with warm drinks in hand. If you’re a solo traveler eager for a small-group experience or someone who values knowledgeable guides and off-the-beaten-path locations, this tour could be a good fit. However, if you’re set on guaranteed sightings or traveling with very young children, the unpredictability might be worth considering.

Key Points

• Comfort and warmth are prioritized with blankets, chairs, hot chocolate, and snacks.
• Off-road super jeep allows access to better viewing spots away from crowds and light pollution.
• Small groups (max 16 travelers) ensure a more personal experience and less noise.
• Weather can be unpredictable, which may affect the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers free cancellation if weather or other issues interfere.
• The price is reasonable given the inclusions like snacks, beverages, and guide service.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Northern Lights Explorer Super Jeep Tour kicks off with a convenient pickup in Reykjavik, making it easy to start your evening adventure without the hassle of finding a meeting point. Once aboard, your guide, who speaks English, will take you into the Icelandic wilderness, away from the city’s light pollution—a crucial factor if you’re serious about catching the auroras.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First stop: Iceland’s countryside — Here, you’ll have the chance to sit comfortably in a camping chair, wrapped in woolen blankets, as you keep an eye on the sky. The tour’s emphasis on comfort means you’re not just standing around in freezing conditions but can relax and enjoy the show with hot chocolate, biscuits, and a special warm drink. WiFi on board is a nice perk, letting you share or check updates while you wait.

The off-road adventure — Unlike typical bus tours, this experience includes a fun off-road ride in a super jeep. Traveling over rugged terrain to reach higher vantage points, your guide aims to find the clearest, darkest skies possible, which can significantly improve your chances of seeing the Northern Lights dance overhead.

Viewing and photo opportunities — When the lights appear, you’ll spend as much time as possible outside to soak in the view. Many reviewers mention the joy of finally witnessing the auroras after some patience, and taking countless photos. It’s a rare moment when silence, cold, and natural beauty come together in one spectacular display.

The return trip — The tour lasts roughly four hours, an ideal length to keep the experience immersive but not exhausting, especially considering the cold. The group size is limited to 16, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for plenty of personalized attention from your guide.

The Real-World Experience

Based on reviews, the guides seem to be a highlight. One reviewer called Thor “an excellent host,” noting he provided not just the essentials like blankets and hot chocolate but also a friendly, knowledgeable demeanor that made the trip enjoyable. Another said, “Thor was the perfect host and showcased his wonderful country,” which speaks to the value of a guide who knows the area well.

The comfort features—chairs, blankets, hot drinks—are especially appreciated on a chilly Icelandic night. One review mentioned how the jeep was “very comfortable,” making the wait outside more bearable. This is crucial because, as another reviewer pointed out, seeing the Northern Lights can sometimes be a matter of luck and patience; therefore, having good amenities can improve your overall experience.

Of course, the weather plays a critical role. One reviewer admitted they spent most of the tour driving and only had a short time outside looking for the lights, noting that a cloudy night made success unlikely. That’s a reminder that this tour is a gamble—nature doesn’t always cooperate, no matter how well you’re prepared.

The Value of the Experience

At just over $238 per person, this tour offers a lot in terms of comfort, convenience, and potential for a memorable sighting. The inclusions—snacks, hot chocolate, blankets, WiFi, and an off-road journey—add up to a well-rounded package. For lighthearted travelers who want a cozy, guided experience with a good chance of seeing the lights, many will find this a solid investment.

What makes it particularly appealing is the small-group setting, which enhances the experience by making it more personal and flexible. Plus, the free cancellation policy is a big plus, as Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, and plans often need to adapt.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who are excited about a guided, comfortable way to see the Northern Lights without sacrificing adventure. If you’re someone who values knowledgeable guides, cozy amenities, and off-road exploration, this could become a highlight of your trip. It’s also a good option for those who prefer a smaller group to noisy bus tours.

However, if your priority is a guaranteed sighting or traveling with very young children, you might want to weigh the uncertain weather conditions. Also, be prepared for potentially long waits outside in cold weather, even with blankets and hot drinks.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, which is enough time to venture out, search for the lights, and relax in the countryside without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions. However, poor weather like heavy clouds could prevent seeing the Northern Lights, and if this happens, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is included in the tour?
You get WiFi on board, snacks, alcoholic beverages, chairs and woolen blankets, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, hot chocolate, and the super jeep experience. Food isn’t included, so you might want to have dinner before or after.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Since the tour depends heavily on weather conditions, it’s flexible and can be rescheduled or refunded.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits participants to 16 people, ensuring a more intimate experience and less crowding.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly designed for children, the experience’s comfort-focused approach could be suitable for older kids or teens who can handle the outdoor cold and are interested in the Northern Lights.

Final thoughts

All in all, the Northern Lights Explorer Super Jeep Tour provides a scenic, comfortable way to chase one of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena. The combination of small-group intimacy, off-road adventure, and cozy amenities makes it a solid choice for travelers looking to make the most of their Icelandic night skies. Keep in mind that seeing the Aurora is never guaranteed, but with a knowledgeable guide and the right conditions, your chances are pretty good.

If you’re happy to embrace the unpredictability and enjoy the journey rather than just the destination, this tour could turn into one of the most memorable moments of your Iceland trip. Just dress warmly, bring your patience, and get ready for a night under the stars.